Santa Success

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I consider seeing Santa without crying this year a “GREAT SUCCESS!”  (in a Borat voice).  I was anticipating some possible tears due to the sheer fact of toddlerhood, but we tried to prep him with little Santa videos, talks about what we were going to do and just acting straight up excited about the experience.  Of course, the toddler right in front of us started screaming bloody murder as soon as he got anywhere close to Santa, so I sensed Nico getting a little scared/nervous about what was going to happen.  We ended up just easing our way up toward Santa slowly, chatting with him and giving him high fives, before we actually did the lap sitting.  Luckily, the staff at Bloomingdale’s was incredibly patient.  They did not rush us at all, and I love that you can also take your own photos there.  Nico gave Santa a few sideways glances and seemed a little unsure about the whole thing, but eventually he cracked a slight smile…enough to capture on camera.  And like I said previously, no tears this year equals success in my book!

We are now down in Maryland with family preparing for the holidays.  I went shopping with the mama last night and braved the crazy crowds.  I have also spent most of this week wrapping presents for family and friends.  We are getting excited for our Seven Fishes Christmas Eve dinner tomorrow night!

Happy Holidays to you all!

XO,

Gina

Seeing Santa

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Nico’s Santa Outfit: Cherokee for Target – on sale!

We were FINALLY able to see Santa last night!  I had been trying to make it there for the past couple weeks, but things were just not working out for us.  The first week, lack of sleep was an obstacle, and on Saturday, the snow and ice was a major obstacle.  However, the Notes family was bound and determined to see good old Kris Kringle this holiday season.  How could I look Nico in the eye when he got older and tell him I never got a picture of him with Santa on his 1st Christmas?  So this time, we headed into the city via subway (also Nico’s 1st ride) to Bloomingdale’s for a lovely experience.  They handed out cookies in line, allowed you to take your own free pictures, and offered professional photography as well.  I would definitely go back again next year.  Not only was this Nico’s 1st visit to Santa Claus, but it was also Daddy’s!  Despite all the craziness of not being able to get to Santa earlier, this day definitely made up for it all.

Oh, and by the way…the winner of the Goodnight Zoo giveaway is Kimberley.  Congratulations!  I will be in touch soon with details on how to claim your prize. 🙂

XO,

Gina